Norwich is another step closer towards the restoration and reopening of the Memorial Gardens as the planning application has been submitted.

Norwich City Council is working with veterans, local interest groups and English Heritage to design a complete restoration and enhancement of the gardens and allow them to be reopened to the public.

Leader of the Council Steve Morphew said: "This is another significant step forward for this important project. There are a number of complex issues around the Memorial Gardens, which need to be considered as part of any work done. However, work is progressing and we are on course to start on site in April 2009."

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Construction work will begin in April 2009, subject to planning approval, with completion in 2010. The current construction estimate is within the £2.6m budget for the scheme.

The project will strengthen the building beneath the gardens, the war memorial will be raised to street level and turned around to face City Hall, a ramp will provide access to the gardens, a new planting scheme will be put in place and a new sculpture will fill the space in the gardens currently occupied by the memorial.

(CD/JM)